boy holds up an electric toothbrush and a regular toothbrush

Are Electric Toothbrushes Really Better?

It’s no secret that electric toothbrushes are becoming increasingly popular. But are they any better than traditional manual toothbrushes? According to the American Dental Association, the answer is a resounding yes!

How Electric Toothbrushes Stand Out

Electric toothbrushes are more effective at removing plaque and bacteria from teeth and gums, and they can be especially beneficial for people who have difficulty brushing manually. If you or your child has braces, an electric toothbrush can also be a great way to ensure that teeth and gums are getting the thorough clean they need.

Timpanogos Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children start using any type of soft-bristled toothbrush as soon as their first baby tooth comes in. Not only will this help them get into the habit of good oral hygiene early on, but it will also make brushing more fun!

Should Kids Use Electric Toothbrushes?

There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing an electric toothbrush for your child. First, make sure that the brush is age- and size-appropriate. Second, look for a brush with soft bristles,  as these will be gentle on your child’s delicate gums.

Finally, keep in mind that electric toothbrushes are not a replacement for good oral hygiene habits. Just like with manual toothbrushes, it’s important that children brush their teeth for two minutes, twice a day.

Best Electric Toothbrushes for Kids

There are a few pediatric-specific electric toothbrushes on the market that are great for kids.

  • The Oral-B Stages Power toothbrush comes with a kid-friendly grip and interchangeable character covers that make brushing fun.
  • The Philips Sonicare for Kids electric toothbrush is also a great option, as it features a kid-sized handle and brush head, as well as fun stickers that can be used to personalize the brush.
  • Quip Kids Electric Toothbrush features a sleek design with a small brush head that can reach easily into small mouths.

Water Picks vs. Flossing

If electric toothbrushes work better than manual ones, does a water pick work better than manual flossing? Water picks use a stream of water to remove plaque and bacteria from teeth and gums, and they can be especially beneficial for children who have braces or other dental appliances. However, water picks should not replace a regular flossing routine. Water picks, or oral irrigators, are a great way to supplement your child’s flossing routine. Flossing is still the best way to remove plaque and bacteria from between teeth.

Best Water Picks for Kids

There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a water pick for your child. First, look for a pick that is pediatrician-recommended. Second, choose a pick with a kid-friendly grip and nozzle. And finally, make sure that the pick you choose is gentle on your child’s gums.

Some pediatric-recommended water picks for kids include the following:

  • Waterpik WP-560, 
  • Philips Sonicare HX8332/10

No matter which water pick you choose, be sure to have your child use it as directed by your pediatric dentist. Overusing a water pick can damage gum tissue, so it’s important to make sure that your child is using it correctly.

Best Floss for Children

The type of floss you choose for your child is important. Look for a floss that is pediatrician-recommended and gentle on your child’s gums.

Some pediatric-recommended flosses for children include 

  • Johnson & Johnson Reach Flosser, which features a pediatrician-approved grip
  • Oral-B Glide Floss Picks, which are designed to be gentle on gums
  • Plackers Kids Dental Floss Picks, which feature an ergonomic, extra-long handle for easy maneuvering
  • GUM EEZ-Thru Floss Threaders, which are designed for use with braces

No matter which floss you choose, be sure to have your child use it as directed by your pediatric dentist. Overflossing can damage gum tissue, so it’s important to make sure that your child is using it correctly.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Electric toothbrushes, water picks, and flossing are all great ways to keep your child’s teeth and gums healthy. But ultimately, the best way to ensure good oral health is to brush regularly and visit your pediatric dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.

If you have any questions about pediatric dental care, or if you would like to schedule an appointment, please call Timpanogos Pediatric Dentistry today. We are always happy to help!

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